Ever wonder what sets successful people apart from the rest of us? It’s not just luck.
The habits we practice in the morning set the tone for our entire day. That’s why the world’s most accomplished folks have morning routines that help them start each day with fervor.
In this article, we’ll delve into 8 morning habits that highly successful people swear by.
These are not just random habits but practices that can build a foundation for productivity, positivity, and success throughout the day.
Let’s get started.
1. They Wake Up Early
Getting up before the sun is a common trait of highly successful people.
Psychology supports this fact, suggesting that early risers are typically more proactive, productive, and better at anticipating and solving problems. They have the advantage of quiet hours without distractions, providing them with a head start to focus on important tasks.
Apple CEO Tim Cook famously wakes up at 3:45 a.m., and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson starts his day at 4:00 a.m.
While you don’t necessarily need to wake up in the middle of the night to be successful, aim for an earlier wake-up time than you’re used to. This can help you avoid morning rush and give you a peaceful start to your day.
Practical Tip: If you’re not a natural early bird, try gradually adjusting your wake-up time. Move it back by 15 minutes every few days until you reach your desired time. It’s also crucial to maintain a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends, to regulate your body’s internal clock.
2. They Meditate
Many successful people swear by morning meditation.
Oprah Winfrey, for example, starts her day with 20 minutes of meditation.
As someone who has personally tried this habit, I can attest to its benefits. It’s like hitting a reset button for your mind, helping you start your day with a clear head and a calm heart.
Practical Tip: If you’re new to meditation, start with just a few minutes each morning. There are plenty of guided meditation apps like Headspace or Calm to help you get started.
It’s not about completely emptying your mind but more about focusing on your breath and letting thoughts pass without judgment. With consistency, you’ll soon find yourself enjoying this peaceful morning practice.
3. They Exercise
Exercising in the morning is a non-negotiable for many successful people. From running to yoga to strength training, moving your body first thing can kickstart your metabolism, boost your energy levels, and improve your mood for the day ahead.
Let’s be honest, dragging yourself out of bed for a workout isn’t always easy. However, the post-workout feeling of accomplishment and the rush of endorphins are absolutely worth it.
Practical Tip: You don’t need to run a marathon each morning. Even a brisk walk or a short yoga session can do wonders.
If you find it hard to motivate yourself, try laying out your workout clothes the night before or finding a workout buddy.
The key is to make exercise a part of your morning routine – something you do without thinking, just like brushing your teeth!
4. They Avoid Checking Emails
This might seem counterintuitive in our hyper-connected world, but many successful people avoid checking their emails first thing in the morning.
Psychology suggests that diving into emails can be a reactive behavior that sets a stressful tone for the day.
Instead, successful people prioritize proactive tasks that align with their personal goals.
LinkedIn CEO Jeff Weiner, for example, chooses to spend his mornings thinking and strategizing instead of getting lost in a sea of emails.
Practical Tip: If it’s unrealistic for you to completely avoid emails in the morning, try setting a specific time for it, maybe after your proactive tasks are done.
You can also use features like ‘Do Not Disturb’ or automatic replies to manage expectations and minimize distractions during your prime morning hours.
5. They Practice Gratitude
Successful people often take time every morning to reflect on the things they’re grateful for. This practice is linked to increased happiness, improved health, and a greater sense of fulfillment. It’s a powerful way to start the day with a positive mindset.
In my personal experience, practicing gratitude helps shift the focus from what’s going wrong to what’s going right. It’s a subtle but effective way to cultivate positivity and resilience.
Practical Tip: Start by jotting down three things you’re grateful for each morning. It could be as simple as a delicious cup of coffee or as profound as the love of your family. Over time, you’ll find this habit transforms your perspective and overall attitude towards life.
6. They Plan Their Day
Successful people don’t just stumble into productivity – they plan for it. They take time each morning to set their goals for the day, prioritize tasks, and create a roadmap to accomplish what needs to be done.
Here’s the brutal truth: without a plan, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of urgent but unimportant tasks. Before you know it, the day is over and you’re left wondering where all your time went.
Practical Tip: Take 10-15 minutes each morning to plan your day. Write down your top 3 priorities and break them down into manageable tasks. Being busy doesn’t always equate to being productive. It’s not about doing more, but about doing what matters most.
7. They Learn Something New
Many successful people dedicate their morning hours to learning something new. Whether it’s reading a book, listening to a podcast, or studying a new language, they understand the value of continuous learning and personal growth.
As the legendary basketball player Michael Jordan once said, “I’ve always believed that if you put in the work, the results will come.”
This belief applies to learning as well; the effort you put into expanding your knowledge and skills can significantly impact your success.
Practical Tip: Make it a habit to learn something new each morning. It could be reading a chapter of a book, listening to an informative podcast during your commute, or even watching a TED Talk while having breakfast. Remember, knowledge is power!
8. They Spend Time in Nature
Many successful people make it a point to spend time in nature each morning. This can be as simple as sipping coffee in the garden or taking a walk in the park. Studies suggest that being in nature can reduce stress, enhance creativity, and improve mental well-being.
In my own routine, I’ve found that spending time outside, even for just a few minutes, helps me feel more calm and grounded. It’s a reminder of the world’s beauty beyond our screens and to-do lists.
Practical Tip: Try to incorporate some outdoor time into your morning routine. It could be having your breakfast outside, going for a jog, or even just watering your plants. If you live in a city and access to nature is limited, try bringing nature inside with houseplants or listening to nature sounds as you start your day.
Conclusion
Everyone’s morning routine will look different depending on their lifestyle, preferences, and goals.
The real secret to success is consistency. It’s about showing up for yourself every single day, even when you don’t feel like it. It’s about making small but meaningful changes that over time add up to substantial growth.
So, why not pick one or two habits from this list that resonate with you and incorporate them into your morning routine?
Remember, the aim isn’t to become a carbon copy of someone else’s success but to discover what works best for you.
You might just be surprised at the impact these small morning rituals can have on your overall success and well-being.
